Berry stopped short of officially ruling out a reunion, saying the Browns are “never going to rule out someone as near and dear to our heart” as Chubb, but a “return is less likely, at least in the short term.” Berry intends to see “how the roles shake out in the running back room” with rookies Quinshon Judkins and Dylan Sampson joining veteran Jerome Ford, who the Browns think “plays a role.” Judkins currently slots in as Chubb’s early-down replacement and Sampson profiles as Ford’s long-term backup as a rotation rusher and passing-down specialist. Per ESPN’s Daniel Oyefusi, Berry encouragingly said, “Chubb’s broken foot has healed and is not a concern,” so Chubb should be able to pass a physical if another team comes calling.

Berry said the team will meet with Chubb’s reps, so it’s possible the two sides can come to an agreement on a new contract. However, the fact that they are letting him test the waters of free agency means bringing him back isn’t a top priority. If other teams aren’t willing to pay much for a 29-year-old running back coming off multiple season-ending injuries, the price could be low enough for Chubb to stay in Cleveland. He has also told reporters he hopes to stay with the Browns, meaning a hometown discount might be on the table. Chubb struggled in 2024 after suffering a catastrophic knee injury early in the 2023 season. He ran for 332 yards at a dreadful 3.2 yards per carry before a broken foot ended his season early. It’s unclear if Chubb will be able to return to form in 2025.

When asked whether his goal is to return to the Browns this offseason, Chubb simply said, “of course.” He later added that he’s not sure how free agency will pan out, with this being the first time hitting the open market but that he’d “like to get it done sooner than later.” Chubb can likely still operate effectively as a rotational rusher. He may be asked to take a discount of sorts though, given his recent injury history.

“Obviously, he’s a popular player in the locker room and with the fan base, but the Browns will have to determine what they think Chubb has left as a player — and he will have to determine where he feels the Browns are headed and how he might fit in that plan,” Jackson adds. Chubb enters free agency at 29 this offseason. The Browns are an intriguing landing spot for a drafted running back if Chubb leaves. Jerome Ford will enter the final year of his rookie deal in 2025.